Spanish - Basic Problems

Tengo un problema.

I have a problem.

Meaning: I have a problem.

When to use: Say this to get attention and signal you need help with something.

Algo anda mal.

Something is wrong.

Meaning: Something is wrong.

When to use: Use when a situation or object isn’t right, but you haven't specified details.

No funciona.

It doesn't work.

Meaning: It doesn't work.

When to use: Use this for devices, machines, apps, or services that are not functioning.

Perdí ___.

I lost ___.

Meaning: I lost ___.

When to use: Say this to report a lost object, adding the item (e.g., mi pasaporte).

Tip: Remember to include the object (e.g., "Perdí mi pasaporte"). Beginners sometimes leave out the possessive and make the meaning unclear.

Me perdí.

I'm lost.

Meaning: I'm lost.

When to use: Use this if you don’t know where you are or how to reach a place.

Me siento mal.

I feel sick.

Meaning: I feel sick.

When to use: Use this to say you feel unwell without naming specific symptoms.

Tip: Avoid saying "Estoy malo/a" for feeling unwell. Use "Me siento mal" or "Estoy enfermo/a" instead.

No hay ___.

There is no ___.

Meaning: There is no ___.

When to use: Use when something needed is missing or unavailable (e.g., agua, señal).

No puedo abrir ___.

I can't open ___.

Meaning: I can't open ___.

When to use: Use this for doors, files, apps, containers, or anything you cannot open.

No puedo usar ___.

I can't use ___.

Meaning: I can't use ___.

When to use: Say this for tools, devices, services, or systems you cannot operate.

No escucho ___.

I can't hear ___.

Meaning: I can't hear ___.

When to use: Use this for audio or hearing problems, like in calls or videos.

No veo ___.

I can't see ___.

Meaning: I can't see ___.

When to use: Say this when you cannot find or visually see something (screen, sign, person).

No puedo leer ___.

I can't read ___.

Meaning: I can't read ___.

When to use: Use this for unclear text, small print, handwriting, or foreign signs.

Me duele ___.

My ___ hurts.

Meaning: My ___ hurts.

When to use: State a body pain, adding the body part (e.g., la cabeza, la garganta).